I am looking for a program that display the sensor temp from the cpu/motherboard/gpu.
I have used speedfan in the past with no problem, but on Windows 8.1 I can not get it to startup when I boot the computer. I tried a few things, found the start up folder but it does not want to start.

Try CPUID Hardware Monitor, works great, provides immediate temp sensor, voltages and fan speeds from all aspects of your pc.  Just go to http://www.cpuid.com/ and you're all set to go.

I use CPUID.

I use AIDA64 (formerly Everest) . Primary a system info program (liek Speccy), but it has a 'Stability Test" system stressing function, but it'll show temps, fan speeds, voltages, etc. for most hardware without starting the test. and displays the history on a nice little graph.

Thanks. Any advice on how to get it to startup automatically in windows 8.1?

I swear I made a post here a day or two ago.  I also offer up my vote for CPUID Hardware Monitor.  I have it set to startup automatically.  I think there is an option but even if there isn't you can always create a shortcut and then move the shortcut to your startup folder which you can find by following these directions.  http://www.thewindowsclub.com/startup-folder-in-windows-8

I was hoping for something that ran in system try.

You can minimize CPUID Hardware Monitor to the system tray.